Hi Nicole! We are neighbors - I am down in Naples. I had RNY surgery in 2009 in PA but am transferring my records to Dr. Bass for follow ups. No complications for me and I wish you all the best!

Hi all, I just wanted to post an update! All of my stuff from my surgeon was sent in to Staywell at the end of November. A few days later I called and was told that it had been denied and was asked if I wanted to appeal the decision. I said yes not thinking much of it because I knew I needed the letter from my PCP and 6 month supervised diet. I started the monthly weigh-ins with my PCP in December. Meanwhile I got a letter about my appeal saying I needed to reply. So I pretty much gathered everything from the past 6 years pertaining to weight loss. Doctor records, screen shots from my food diaries on myfitnesspal and caloriecounter.com, my weights from 2008-now, and a letter explaining my successful and unsuccessful attempts at weight-loss. So I have been over here thinking it wouldn't happen until May. I actually had my next weigh-in with my PCP next week. I got a call today from Staywell saying my surgery had been APPROVED! I then called Shands and they were just about to call me to schedule the date. It is set for January 29th! It has been a long 6 months! I started the process June 28th last year. 

Do you know if share of cost will pay if the primary insurance exclude it from the policy?

If I can help please don't hesitate to ask. When I was pre - op I had many unanswered questions about Medicaid which I had to just navigate as I went. So I'd be glad to assist if I can. ....good luck! 

Medicaid definitely covers WLS. Find a surgeon that you're comfortable with ask if they take Medicaid. If not, go to the next surgeon until you find 1. Or you can do a Google search of hospitals in your area & inquire of the Bariatric doctors. Once you meet your share of cost for the month it's straight Medicaid so just ask if they accept Medicaid not share of cost.